Jaguar XF runs on oily rag

Beginning in New York and finishing in Los Angeles, California on Monday, November 14, the British team's journey - the equivalent of travelling from London to the Sahara - took in 11 states, three time zones and eight days. Yet the XF only required four stops for fuel - its peak economy of 4.21 l/100 km being achieved on the penultimate day of the trip.

Paul Alcock, XF Project Manager, Jaguar Cars, who was present throughout the journey, commented: "This project was designed primarily to test the potential economy of the XF 2.2. The incredible figures achieved by the car were accomplished through making every element of the new XF as efficient as possible - from its aerodynamics to its four-cylinder 2.2-litre diesel engine linked to an eight-speed gearbox. The whole XF team is incredibly proud of what's been achieved and is a graphic demonstration of the strength, engineering integrity and efficiency of the car."

Driven by independent testers, David and Alexander Madgwick, the XF 2.2 was a scrupulously standard UK registered, right-hand drive vehicle. In the course of the coast to coast adventure, the car maintained an average speed of 85 km/h incorporating a multitude of real-life scenarios including the busy roads exiting New York and, towards the end of the trip, entering Los Angeles, road works, high winds and a climb to 7,275 feet above sea level.

Despite such efficiency, the XF 2.2 maintains the levels of performance and efficiency expected of a Jaguar. Capable of seating five adults in comfort, it's equipped with leather trim as standard as well as a touch screen display and climate control. The XF is capable of accelerating from rest to 100 km/h in a little over 8-seconds before reaching a top speed of 225 km/h.

The project has been broadcast live on Twitter and on Facebook as Jaguar's Senior Press Officer, Faye Goldstraw, travelling in a support vehicle, charted the progress of the car as it crossed America.